The following is a text only press release from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). An HTML version of this release can be read on the agency's Web site at www.imls.gov/news/2007/011707.shtm. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 17, 2007 Press Contacts 202-653-4628 Kevin O'Connell, [log in to unmask] Mamie Bittner, [log in to unmask] IMLS Calls for 2007 21st Century Museum Professionals Grant Applications Application Deadline: March 15, 2007 Washington, DC--The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is calling for grant applications from museums, service organizations, and universities for proposals that will enhance the professional development of museum staff. The purpose of the 21st Century Museum Professionals program is to build the knowledge, skills, and abilities of museum professionals so that they will be better equipped to serve the needs of their communities. Museums play a critical role in preserving America's rich cultural heritage and transmitting it from one generation to the next. The rapidly changing environment of the knowledge society, the possibilities provided by new technologies, the increasing diversity of the population, and the need to demonstrate public value and accountability require an expanding portfolio of skills for museum professionals at every level. The Institute encourages proposals from museums, service organizations, and universities that will build the capacities of the nation's museums. The IMLS 21st Century Museum Professionals grant program provides a special opportunity for museum professionals from all types of museums, from art to zoos, to update their knowledge and skills. Applications, guidelines, and examples of successful proposals can be found on the agency's Web site at www.imls.gov/applicants/grants/21centuryMuseums.shtm. All applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov. Instructions for completing and submitting applications through Grants.gov are in the guidelines and on the IMLS Web site at www.imls.gov/applicants/grantsgov/21mp07.shtm. Awards will be announced in September 2007. About the Institute of Museum and Library Services The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 122,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit: www.imls.gov. ========================================================= Important Subscriber Information: The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes). If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).